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The Mazda’s traditional
interior is rather plain...
.. .especially seen next
to the sporty 3008.
On paper, the Pug
pips the Mazda for
interior space.
Standard features for Mazda’s mid-spec model include a seven-
inch colour touchscreen, sat nav, digital audio, rear parking
sensors, reversing camera, keyless push-button start, blind spot
monitoring, cross traffic alert, smart city brake support, auto
headlamps, rain-sensing wipers and dual-zone climate control.
The facelift is immediately noticeable, with repositioned
A-pillars, redesigned headlamps and grille, and a slightly wider
track that gives it a broader stance. The whole package looks
much closer to the stunning concept CX-5 revealed to the media
back in 2012. The front seats have been reshaped, and the
40/20/40 split-fold rear seat is standard across all grades.
The interior remains one of the best in class for ergonomics
and finish, but, compared to the new 3008, it feels a little staid,
especially in its conventional instrument cluster. The driving
position is ideal, offering good all-round vision and ergonomics,
and the redesigned seats are comfy, with the second row better
than that in the Peugeot. On paper, the Peugeot has more cargo
space, but little separates them in actual use.
There have been some mechanical tweaks to improve fuel
consumption and Mazda’s SkyActiv Vehicle Dynamics is used on
AWD models. The system controls engine torque and, when the
driver turns into a corner, it shifts the load to the front wheels
to improve grip. Through the corner, the load is transferred to
the rear wheels to improve stability.
Mazda’s naturally-aspirated four-cylinder and six-speed auto
combination is arguably the best in the business and a big
reason behind the CX-5’s success. The engine is far from
conventional, however, employing lots of high-tech features to
deliver performance while minimising fuel consumption. It’s
brisk off the mark, gearshifts are crisp, and it’s quick to kick
down. The 2.5 -litre engine doesn’t mind a few revs, either, but it
remains composed and quiet even at its 6000rpm rev limit.
Although the CX-5’s thirst wasn’t disgraced, the Peugeot
proved more economical, returning 7.7L/100km. On-road, the
CX-5 feels more like the Mazda3 than a high-riding SUV and,
whether on steep or twisty sections of road, it’s as competent and
composed as they come. Mazda’s more sophisticated suspension
also gives it the edge over the Peugeot when pushed hard.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 3008 is an appealing new addition to the mid-sized SUV
market. Its interior styling is tastefully finished and functional
for the most part. The engine and transmission rival those in
the Mazda, while the balance between ride comfort and
handling was a real surprise. Space in the rear is excellent and
little separates it from the CX-5 .
Even at $39,990 drive away, however, the Active 3008 is
pricey compared to the CX-5 Maxx Sport (the 2WD Maxx starts
at under $30,000). The 3008 doesn’t feel as sharp on-road as
the CX-5 , either, and the Mazda’s overall package is the most
complete in the segment. Its dealership network is broader, too,
and ownership costs are among the cheapest in the class.
OPEN ROAD 43
OR1117_MOT_Peugeot vs Mazda_V2.indd 43
23/10/17 6:27 pm